STM Grip 2 for iPad mini Review

Pros

Solid build

Lightweight design

Kickstand is very well executed

Cons

Latch gets in the way sometimes when using the tablet in portrait mode

STM is no stranger in protecting your investments with a sense of style and function when it comes to bags and cases for your notebook or tablet. The STM Grip 2 is a lightweight case for the iPad mini with Retina display, as well as Apple’s original iPad mini, that combines protection with an integrated stand.

So how does this case fare? Let’s find out!

Design

The STM Grip 2 is designed as a clamsell to protect both the front and the rear of the iPad mini. This shell is made of polycarbonate plastic and includes a rubber hinge. There is also a rubber latch on the opposite side to securely shut the lid, and the iPad’s screen reacts to opening and closing the lid much like Apple’s own Smart Covers.

The power and volume buttons, plus the mute/rotation lock switch, are still easily accessible with the tablet in the case. There is also a hole in the back of the case for the camera.

Speaking of the back, there is a built in kickstand which will let you view videos or work with a keyboard in landscape mode. The hinge has been designed so that users can adjust the screen’s angle however they want to.

Performance

The STM Grip 2 is rugged to the point where users can feel confident that the iPad will be protected, but light enough where it doesn’t feel like too much weight is added. Like all cases, it does add some thickness to the super-thin iPad mini but that is a price that has to be paid for protecting a tablet.

The case doesn’t interfere with using the iPad mini in portrait mode with the lid folded back all the way. However, the latch that clips the lid closed sometimes gets in the way.

Conclusion

The STM Grip 2 is a great companion for the iPad mini, and the built-in kickstand is very well executed. It’s a good option for the average person who doesn’t need the extreme protection of a LifeProof case or an Otterbox.

It isn’t perfect, but if STM were to figure out a solution for the latch we would have a nearly perfect product for the occasional traveler. At $39.99, this is a great value in protecting your device.

Pros:

Solid build

Lightweight design

Kickstand is very well executed

Cons:

Latch gets in the way sometimes when using the tablet in portrait mode